Austria’s Lake District

To the east of Salzburg, in the shadow of the mighty Dachstein, mountains plunge into sparkling blue lakes, creating almost fjord-like landscapes. Inviting paths lead alongside the water at the foot of the mountains, and cable cars give easy access to the upper slopes, for gentle walks across meadows, surrounded by jagged peaks. In this deeply traditional region, the hotels are friendly, and the cuisine, delicious.

Nights: 4
Grade: 1-2
Terrain: meadows, broad ridges, lakeside paths
Hotels: two 3-star hotels
Meals: dinner & breakfast each day
Climate: Austrian summers are warm and sunny, with pleasant mountain breezes - perfect walking conditions. Temperatures average 16.5°C in June, rising to around 20°C in July and August.

Starting point: Agathawirt (3*), St Agatha. The centuries-old Agathawirt is full of Austrian charm and carved wood furniture. The Schenner family offers a warm welcome and good, traditional cuisine. There is an attractive terrace and a small covered pool.

Day 1: for your day at St Agatha we suggest two options. The first is a circular walk uphill across lush alpine pastures with spectacular views of the mountains, returning across more meadows. With its dramatic fusion of mountain and lake, the second is a splendid and thoroughly enjoyable walk. You follow the Ostuferweg, an easy path that leads alongside the edge of Hallstättersee, at the very foot of the mountains. You enjoy a delightful journey across the lake on the steamer from Obertraun to historic Hallstatt (pay locally). Approaching via the lake, you get the best views of the village and can appreciate how the houses clamber up the slope, seemingly one on top of the other. You can return to St Agatha on foot or by bus (pay locally). (8km or up to 16km)

Accommodation: Agathawirt, as above.

Day 2: the day starts with a taxi transfer to Gosau, offering spectacular views of the Dachstein range. After dropping off your luggage you continue by taxi to Vorderer Gosauersee, where a scenic path leads along the lake's wooded shores and those of its neighbour. After walking round the two lakes, you can return to Gosau on foot or by bus (pay locally). (13km)

Accommodation: Gosauerhof (3*), Gosau. With the warm hospitality and locally renowned cuisine of sisters Anni and Brigitte Laserer, this is the perfect place to unwind and appreciate the mountain scenery.

Day 3: catch the bus back to Gosauersee and take the cable car (pay locally) up to the top of the broad ridge. From here, a fine path descends towards Gosau, offering wonderful views in clear weather back to the Dachstein Mountains. (9km)

Accommodation: Gosauerhof, as above.

Prices & travel 2008

£ per person based on 2 in a double rm	Walk price*	Single room
4 nights: 7 June-26 October 2008
7-20 Jun	362	26
21 Jun-18 Jul	380	26
19 Jul-29 Aug	394	26
30 Aug-30 Sep	362	26
1-26 Oct	352	26
3rd+ person saving	100

*Price includes: 4 nights' dinner & breakfast; return taxi from Salzburg airport (out/home 1h)
Recommended destination airport: Salzburg.
Latest flight arrival time: flexible
Earliest flight departure time: flexible
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